A member-oriented organization, NSP offers high-caliber training in eight disciplines: Avalanche Sciences and Safety, emerging innovative Bike Patrols, Instructor Development, Mountain Travel and Rescue, Nordic/Backcountry, Outdoor Emergency Care, Outdoor Emergency Transportation, and Outdoor Risk Management.  Patrollers often begin their careers as candidate patrollers by completing Outdoor Emergency Care, an in-depth, outdoor-oriented emergency medical course.  Many patrollers pursue further training and become certified instructors in their disciplines.  NSP’s participation in the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR) and Fédération Internationale des Patrouilles de Ski (FIPS) ensures our curricula are current, relevant, and recognized worldwide standards.

NSP has over 31,000 volunteers and paid members, serving over 650 ski and bike patrols.  NSP members work on behalf of local outdoor recreation areas, including winter snow and summer sports areas, to promote safe recreation and to provide emergency care.  Supporting our members and mission are a staff of up to 22, not including contract and freelance support, with headquarters based in Lakewood, Colorado, with an annual budget of approximately $4 million.

The National Board of Directors comprises 13 NSP members elected by NSP’s membership.  All board members serve as volunteers and have term limits.  Like most NSP members, board members are passionate about patrolling and proud of NSP’s heritage.  In addition to managing dynamic standing and ad hoc committees, board members also play active roles in shaping the organization’s future.